Abstract: A bioreactor includes a fixed bed for culturing cells and a sensor system for sensing a density of the cells in the fixed bed. The sensor may be selected from the group comprising: (a) a sensor for measuring impedance across at least a portion of the fixed bed; (b) a flowmeter for detecting a rate of flow of liquid associated with the fixed bed; (c) a sensor for measuring a pressure differential in a flow of liquid through the fixed bed; (d) a monitor, such as a light sensor or microscope, for detecting light from a light source for projecting light on or in the fixed bed, wherein the detected or measured characteristic is indicative of cell density in the fixed bed; (e) a chemical sensor within the fixed bed for detecting a chemical indicative of cell density in the fixed bed. Related sensor arrangements, systems, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a matrix in ball form comprising cross-linked fibrinogen, the matrix being free from fibrin, as well as to a method for preparing such a matrix, comprising the following steps: (a) providing an initial composition comprising fibrinogen and a platelet factor; (b) injecting said initial composition into an oil heated to a temperature of 50° C. to 80° C. so as to form an emulsion; (c) mixing the emulsion thus obtained at a temperature of 50° C. to 80° C. until a matrix in ball form is obtained; and (d) isolating the matrix thus obtained. The matrix is used as a cell carrier.

Abstract: The invention relates to a matrix in ball form comprising cross-linked fibrinogen, the matrix being free from fibrin, as well as to a method for preparing such a matrix, comprising the following steps: (a) providing an initial composition comprising fibrinogen and a platelet factor, (b) injecting said initial composition into an oil heated to a temperature of 50° C. to 80° C. so as to form an emulsion, (c) mixing the emulsion thus obtained at a temperature of 50° C. to 80° C. until a matrix in ball form is obtained, and (d) isolating the matrix thus obtained. The matrix is used as a cell carrier.